The 109 Legislature of Nebraska began early in January and hit the ground running on a diverse range of issues. While more than 750 bills and resolutions were introduced, here’s 12 that are likely to impact high school students:
1. LB14: Adopt the Hunger-Free Schools Act
This bill proposes the adoption of the Hunger-Free Schools Act, aiming to ensure that all students have access to free, nutritious meals during the school day. By eliminating the cost barrier, it seeks to reduce food insecurity among students, which can enhance their concentration, academic performance and overall well-being. For high school students, this means a greater likelihood of receiving consistent meals, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes.
Introduced by: Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh
Status: Referred to Education Committee
2. LB48: Establish a Juvenile Assessment and Family Resource Pilot Program
This bill seeks to create a pilot program focused on juvenile assessment and family resources. The program aims to identify at-risk high school students and provide them, along with their families, with necessary support services. By addressing issues such as behavioral challenges, academic struggles or family-related concerns, the bill would provide early intervention, promote better educational engagement and reduce dropout rates among high schoolers.
Introduced by: Sen. Terrell McKinney
Status: Referred to Health and Human Services Committee
3. LB65: Exempt Individuals Under Nineteen Years Old from Paying Certain Court Costs
LB65 proposes that individuals under the age of 19 be exempted from paying specific court costs. This measure is designed to reduce financial barriers within the legal system for high school-aged students who may become involved in legal proceedings. By alleviating these financial burdens, the bill aims to ensure that young individuals can navigate the justice system without undue hardship, potentially leading to more equitable outcomes.
Introduced by: Sen. Wendy DeBoer
Status: Referred to Judiciary Committee; First hearing took place on January 24
4. LB122: Require the Display of State and National Mottos in Schools
This bill mandates that all schools prominently display the state and national mottos within their facilities. The intent is to promote civic education and instill a sense of state and national pride among students. For high school students, this initiative could enhance their understanding of civic values and encourage a deeper appreciation for their cultural heritage and national identity.
Introduced by: Sen. Glen Meyer
Status: Referred to Education Committee
5. LB140: Require School Policies Relating to Phone Usage of Students
LB140 requires school districts to establish policies governing students’ use of mobile phones during school hours. The aim is to minimize distractions, promote engagement in classroom activities and enhance the overall learning environment. For high school students, this could lead to more focused academic experiences and reduced interruptions caused by mobile device usage but could also increase conflict between students and faculty.
Introduced by: Sen. Rita Sanders
Status: Referred to Education Committee
6. LB181: Extend Benefits Under the Young Adult Bridge to Independence Act to Undocumented Young Adults
LB181 seeks to extend the benefits provided by the Young Adult Bridge to Independence Act to include undocumented young adults. This act offers support services to young individuals transitioning out of foster care, including assistance with housing, education and employment. By broadening eligibility, the bill aims to provide undocumented high school graduates with resources that facilitate their transition into adulthood and higher education or the workforce.
Introduced by: Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh
Status: Referred to Health and Human Services Committee
7. LB258: Change Provisions to Minimum Wage Laws
This bill proposes changes to existing minimum wage laws, potentially affecting the earnings of working high school and college students. Adjustments would include modifications to make wage rates lower, as youth would not be entitled to the $15 minimum wage. For students who are employed, such changes may impact their financial stability and ability to fund educational expenses.
Introduced by: Sen. Jane Raybould
Status: Referred to Business and Labor Committee
8. LB352: Change Provisions for Reporting Student Achievement and Discipline
This bill proposes modifications to how student achievement and disciplinary actions are reported within schools. The changes aim to create a more comprehensive and transparent reporting system, potentially leading to better-informed strategies for addressing academic and behavioral issues. For high school students, this could mean more tailored interventions and support mechanisms to enhance their educational experience.
Introduced by: Sen. Beau Ballard
Status: Referred to Education Committee; First hearing on January 27
9. LB367: Ban Conversion Therapy
LB367 seeks to prohibit the practice of conversion therapy, a controversial method aimed at changing an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. By banning this practice, the bill aims to protect LGBTQ+ high school and college students from potentially harmful treatments, promoting a safer and more accepting environment for all students.
Introduced by: Sen. Megan Hunt
Status: Referred to Health and Human Services Committee
10. LB368: Establish the Nebraska Youth in Care Bill of Rights
LB368 introduces the Nebraska Youth in Care Bill of Rights, designed to protect and affirm the rights of youth in foster care. This includes rights related to education, personal property and participation in extracurricular activities. For high school students in foster care, this bill seeks to ensure they receive equitable treatment and access to the same opportunities as their peers, promoting a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Introduced by: Sen. Megan Hunt
Status: Referred to Judiciary Committee
11. LB383: Implement the Parental Rights in Social Media Act
This bill enacts the Parental Rights in Social Media Act, which requires minors under the age of 18 to obtain parental consent to access social media platforms. Additionally, it mandates age verification processes and grants parents’ oversight of their children’s online activities. For high school students, this could lead to increased parental involvement in their digital interactions, potentially affecting their online engagement and privacy.
Introduced by: Sen. Tanya Storer
Status: Referred to Judiciary Committee
12. LB423: Eliminate Grants for Programs Relating to Internships for Job Training
LB423 proposes the elimination of grants that fund internships aimed at providing work experience for students ahead of entering the job market. The removal of such funding could lead to reduced support for internships that assist high school students with gaining professional development, potentially limiting their career readiness and making work experience harder to achieve.
Introduced by: Sen. Christy Armendariz
Status: Referred to Business and Labor Committee
